Could all you helpful Thaivisa people please explain just how the Vientiane Royal Thai Consulate appointment system is working please? Does one apply well in advance for the day one's visa expires and get it? What is the likelihood of getting an appointment on the day? Or should I expect to have to wait a few days in Laos after leaving Thailand when my visa expires? Thanks.

How long in advance you need to make the appointment depends upon whether you are getting a tourist visa or a non immigrant visa.

For a tourist visa it is 2 to 3 weeks or less on average (today 12, 15 and 19 July or later is available)..

Non immigrant a week or less (today 2 July or 9 July or later is available).

8 hours ago, ubonjoe said:

How long in advance you need to make the appointment depends upon whether you are getting a tourist visa or a non immigrant visa.

For a tourist visa it is 2 to 3 weeks or less on average (today 12, 15 and 19 July or later is available)..

Non immigrant a week or less (today 2 July or 9 July or later is available).

OK thanks Joe. I suppose that if the date u must exit Thailand isnt available then one must spend extra days in Laos until one's appointment date, or choose an available date before the date one must exit Thailand and lose a day or more off one's current visa.

1 hour ago, SunsetT said:

OK thanks Joe. I suppose that if the date u must exit Thailand isnt available then one must spend extra days in Laos until one's appointment date, or choose an available date before the date one must exit Thailand and lose a day or more off one's current visa.

As usual, if you can plan your life a few weeks ahead, such things become easier.

6 hours ago, SunsetT said:

OK thanks Joe. I suppose that if the date u must exit Thailand isnt available then one must spend extra days in Laos until one's appointment date, or choose an available date before the date one must exit Thailand and lose a day or more off one's current visa.

If you check about 3 weeks before the date your permit to stay ends you should not have a problem to find an appointment that fits you schedule.

I think losing a few days on your current permit to stay would be better than waiting until the last day and then waiting around until your appointment date in Vientiane.

For those on tourist visa visa I suggest they use the day they apply for a 30 day extension as a reminder to make an appointment.